NEWSWIRE

CANADA FARES WELL IN IRISH DRAW

Canada got some much needed confidence ahead of Monday's match against the Kenya with a spirited draw against Ireland that concluded Saturday. The agreement between the two sides was to bat 90 overs each day and Canada after winning the toss on Friday put the Irish into bat. Rayan Pathan introduced himself to Irish cricket with 4-56 and was joined by fellow youngster Nikil Dutta (4-51) in giving the top ranked associate side all they could handle. Ireland were bowled out for 145 with only former England international Ed Joyce reaching a half century. The Irish would eventually finish the day effectively 240-12.

On Saturday Canada got their turn and it was Hiral Patel (63) leading the way as he put on 52 runs with Ruvindu Gunasekera for the opening stand and Canada were on their way. With some needed contributions from the middle order Canada made 225-10 before heading back in. Raza ur-Rehman (56*), who missed out in the first innings got some much needed time at the crease. In the end Canada would make 295 from their 90 overs and carry some much needed confidence and a bit of swagger into Monday's meeting with Kenya.